Korean J Dermatol.  2007 Dec;45(12):1253-1257.

Clinical Effects of Shark Cartilage Extracts on Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea Patients

• Han TY
• Kim BJ
• Kim MN
• Huh CH
• Rho NK
• Kim SH
• Hong HK
• Choi YS
• Jo YC

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Persistent facial telangiectasia, erythema and flushing are the major cosmetic problems in patients with rosacea. However various therapeutic treatments for rosacea papules and pustules are not effective in reducing telangiectasia and flushing reactions. Matrix-centered theory that dermal matrix degradation can cause telangiectasis, erythema and flushing, is one of the various theories of rosacea pathogenesis. Shark cartilage extracts are collagenase inhibitors and can inhibit dermal matrix degradation.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical effects of shark catilage extracts (Venatrix(R)) for erythematotelangiectatic rosacea patients.
METHODS
Twenty three patients with erythematotelangiectatic rosacea applied shark cartilage extracts twice daily for up to 8 weeks. Efficacy was evaluated by erythema index using mexameter (MPA 5, CK, Germany) and clinical photography.
RESULTS
Erythema index decreased from 525.7+/-114 to 413.9+/-101.7 (mean reduction: 21.3%) (p<0.1) after 8 weeks treatment. 16 patients (69%) showed excellent or good results by clinical photography. Transient stinging sensation was the most common adverse effect and these symptoms improved after the first few days. There were no other significant side effects.
CONCLUSION
Shark cartilage extracts may be an effective treatment for mild erythematotelangiectatic rosacea.

Keyword

Rosacea; Shark cartilage extracts

MeSH Terms

Bites and Stings
Cartilage*
Erythema
Flushing
Humans
Matrix Metalloproteinase Inhibitors
Photography
Rosacea*
Sensation
Sharks*
Telangiectasis
Matrix Metalloproteinase Inhibitors